An Environmental Scan and Decision Tool for Menstrual Product Programs Selecting Free Vend Dispensers

Abstract

This study describes the results of a comparative environmental scan used to investigate and characterize (a) the structural and operational characteristics of menstrual product dispensers compatible with free menstrual product programs, and (b) the companies involved in manufacturing, selling, and distributing these dispensers. A structured online search led to the identification of 38 companies distributing 96 free vend menstrual product dispensers. Three key design considerations emerged from our comparison of various dispenser features: the type(s) of products dispensed, overall dispenser capacity, and dispensing modality. Most dispensers were capable of dispensing at least two menstrual product options. Overall dispenser capacity varied considerably between models, suggesting a lack of consistency in dispenser sizing. The free menstrual product dispensers captured in our search employed a wide variety of dispensing modalities. Few dispensers were designed as open-air access, suggesting that some form of control over product dispensing may be a preferred design characteristic for companies and/or prospective purchasers. Companies exclusively offering products related to menstruation and menstrual management appeared to demonstrate broader support for menstrual equity initiatives (e.g., statements, donations, formal partnerships, education, advocacy), especially when compared to companies offering free menstrual product dispensers as part of a larger inventory of products unrelated to menstruation. Finally, results from the environmental scan informed the development of a decision tool intended to support program administrators in selecting dispensers that best fit their program’s needs. This decision tool provides a novel structure for program administrators to compare and consider the various characteristics of the companies and free vend dispensers they may choose to use in their respective menstrual equity initiatives. To our knowledge, no other tools currently exist to support program administrators involved in these purchasing decisions, which is especially important since the burden of researching, comparing, and selecting program infrastructure is often downloaded onto program administrators without clear directives or guidance, creating a clear gap that may be filled by the novel structure and decision framework provided by this tool.